Police in Powys are reminding trades people to check their vehicle security, after a van was broken into and another was targeted in the Knighton and Presteigne areas.

Sometime between Friday, March 1 and Monday, March 4, a van was broken into while parked in Knighton and approximately £400 worth of tools were stolen. An attempted break-in also happened on Monday, March 4, in the Evenjobb area, near Presteigne.

It has prompted the police to appeal for witnesses, and officers are advising van owners to increase their vehicle security.

PCSO Anna Bowen said: “I urge van owners, and particularly vans with power tools in, to be vigilant when loading and unloading their vans and report anything suspicious to police immediately.

“Increase security measures to keep property safe and also if anyone is offered tools in suspicious circumstances, please do not buy them and let police know immediately via 101. You can also contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Top tips for van and power tools safety:

  • Always lock doors and shut windows, physically check that van doors are locked
  • Do not leave any items on display
  • Park in a garage or secure area where possible
  • Park with the doors against a wall
  • If you park on your driveway consider installing motion-activated CCTV
  • Be vigilant when unloading
  • Remove the tools from the van if possible
  • Mark all tools with a forensic property marking solution
  • Set an alarm or immobiliser
  • Consider upgrading locks
  • Consider installing secure storage containers or lockers in the van to store tools in
  • Register tools for free at www.immobilise.com